A letter from the Executive Director
(Actually, according to my friend from Canada, Texas only knows how to have ICE DAYS)… So, let me start again… ICE DAY 2022. The long and the short of ICE DAY means that my boys, Carsten and Landon, are home from school. In order to provide both necessary activity and accomplish a much needed task, I decide it is time for a closet cleanout. And so it begins. Bags of trash were collected, book shelves cleaned out, and clothes outgrown by older brother Carsten were moved to the younger Landon’s closet. In the midst of all the excitement, Casten found my high school yearbook. He was adamant that we look at every page I was listed on, and to be completely honest, it was a nice break from the closet work that still lay ahead. As we sat on the floor, reviewing scenes from my past and even articles I had written within the yearbook, I was disappointed with myself. Somehow so many of those high school memories have dissipated.
A couple of things, however, about high school still stick with me. First, it is hard growing up. Second, I have been surrounded by the love and support of family and friends my entire life. Third, all my needs were met and exceeded. And lastly I was the and to this day remain blessed in more ways than I can voice.
So, what does this have to do with the St. Joseph’s Community Foundation? The people the Foundation helps may not know exaclty where the funds are coming from that directly helo them, but they do (not unlike high school) understand that frist, growing up is hard. Some times in life are more challenging that others. Secondly, they understand that they are surrounded by the support of community agencies that can assist them in that moment of need. Third, that their needs are being better met by Foundation funds that have been provided. And lastly, that for even just a moment, they are blessed.
The Foundation holds a key role in this community by assisting with the medical needs of those most in need:
- When a person gets help for diabetes or blood pressure from the Paris-Lamar County Health District…
- When a child shows up at the Children’s Advocacy Center because they must visit the SANE Nurse…
- When a prescription voucher is handed to a King’s Daughter’s client…
- When a youth can get a meal and not go home hungry from CitySquare Paris…
- When a student can cut back on work hours because the Foundation is helping to fund her Nursing Degree, or help pay his electricity bill or cover books…
Thank you for your continued support of the St. Joseph’s Community Foundation and for helping us make a difference in our community. It is my Joy and Honor to serve as the Executive Director.
Blessings,
Louisa L. Kessel